The Landmark

The Landmark to me has always been just a link from Greenbelt to Glorietta. I've passed many times. I've checked out its wares but only on the floor where I can easily exit to my intended destination.

I must confess, I don't like to shop at The Landmark. Yes, the price point is easy on the budget. But service-wise, it's so backward. It's as slow as the pace of a snail on a bad day. So, I made a decision not to put my temper to the test. 

But last night, I had an epiphany. What if the upper floors hold some treasures that I would have not thought possible to be just waiting to be discovered? Off I went up to the fourth level where the home and children's department are located. Lately, I've been obsessed with plants, planters, pots, tea pots, pretty jars and cake stands.  

The recent renovation made the place look bright, modern and spacious. 

Glass Jars galore! All sizes.

Obviously, the counter sign isn't part of its renovation efforts :-)

Ok, these are plastic plants but you get the picture.

Rows and rows of synthetic plants arranged in attractive jars/pots. A wide selection of empty pots can be found in one section. The quality of the pots is surprisingly excellent -- nice quality glazed pots in varying colors, no uneven surface and chipped parts. 

Although personally, am more interested with real, live plants -- to some whom synthetic plants seem more practical in terms of care and attention, then this is definitely, a haven.

Am going to go back tomorrow to linger at each interesting piece on display at a price that will not burn a hole in the pocket. See it for yourself, too.

The Landmark

Ayala Center

Makati Avenue, Makati City

XX

Sheng

Manila, Manila!

Back in the province, when we were just little children, Manila is synonymous to Luneta Park for us. That is before the gigantic malls have taken over the landscape of metropolitan Manila. So, you can just imagine the fantasies that we conjure in our minds as we daydream of that day when we can finally set foot in the country's capital. 

Many years later, I grew up and got side tracked by life and other events. I've forgotten about it. Then, in a twist of fate, I now consider myself a resident of the Philippine capital. Yet, it took me many years to finally take a leisurely time to get to know this landmark. 

The National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal at the Luneta Park.

When I found the time, it was just perfect. We chose to visit it on the commemoration of the Philippine Independence, June 12. Very symbolic, eh? Here lies the man who showed us Filipinos that indeed, the pen is mightier than the sword. 

The martyred hero.

He taught us the concept of nationalism and instill the virtue of knowing your identity as a people. And loving your skin color and language. Walking around park is sort of a wake up call. Inasmuch as you have to embrace the new world, you have to always go back to your roots. You don't turn back from it in order to move forward. 

Zarah and I.

 

 

 

This wall could speak.

While we roam around Luneta, one has to realize that this is not the figurative walk in the park! It covers such a big area that you feel as if you've walked an entire city. Zarah was our impromptu history guide. She took us back to the events that led to Rizal's martyrdom and what did it mean then and now. Analysis thrown in, opinion tossed by our small group as we enjoyed the view. Quite a respite from the usual gossip in everyday life. ha ha ha. 

Luneta Park plays a significant role in the country's identity; it marks Km. 0.

Adjacent to the park are art installations that dot the stretch of Roxas Boulevard. 

Dancing Rings by Olympic Sculptor Jose Datuin.

Beautiful mural.

In my bucket list, Luneta Park has been crossed out already along with Intramuros, the historied fortress of Manila. But I intend to do another Manila Walk again. This time with the Walking Man of Manila himself, Carlos Celdran. 


Until my next tour of my own city. 

Hello from Manila.